Starmer overruled warning of reputational risk' over Mandelson appointment, files show

"The files show that two of the government's most senior security and foreign policy officials—national security adviser Jonathan Powell and FCDO permanent secretary Philip Barton—raised concerns about Mandelson's appointment due to his involvement in previous public scandals. Despite the document prepared by the officials warning that Mandelson had continued his relationship with Epstein after his conviction, emails show close aides to the prime minister said they were satisfied with Mandelson's explanations of their friendship."

"Starmer was warned before appointing Mandelson that he remained in contact and stayed with Epstein after the financier was first convicted of procuring an underage girl in 2008; Powell told an investigation that he thought the appointment was weirdly rushed; Starmer was reassured about Mandelson's friendship with Epstein by Matthew Doyle, his former communications chief and a friend of Mandelson."

"The disclosure in newly released files will raise fresh questions about Starmer's judgment as well as about the vetting procedures at the highest levels of government. The files show that Mandelson was offered a highly classified briefing from the Foreign Office even before he finished the formal vetting process."

Newly released government documents reveal that Prime Minister Keir Starmer disregarded warnings from senior officials about appointing Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. National security adviser Jonathan Powell and Foreign Office permanent secretary Philip Barton raised concerns about Mandelson's involvement in previous scandals and his continued relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein after 2008. Despite these documented warnings, Starmer's team accepted Mandelson's explanations through communications chief Matthew Doyle. Mandelson received a classified Foreign Office briefing before completing formal vetting. He was subsequently dismissed in September after new revelations about his Epstein association emerged. The appointment process raised questions about government vetting procedures and the prime minister's judgment.

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